Book review of This is Not a Sleepy Bear Book by Brian Gehrlein

Owl takes his responsibilities very seriously: He’s going to help Bear calmly, serenely transition into his long winter hibernation. As such, Owl serves as the goal-oriented narrator of This Is Not a Sleepy Bear Book which, he soothingly explains, is “a gentle, quiet story.”

While Owl perches in a tree and reads from his poetically phrased book (“Morning frost sparkled on the forest floor”) while pointing out the risks of not hibernating (“Without his nap, he’d be a cranky bear”), Bear stretches and yawns, ready for months of shut-eye.

When it’s time to hunker down, Bear opens the door to his den and . . . whoa! He and Owl are greeted by animals playing “A ten-piece drum set? Sick guitar riffs? A random jazz flute?” Observant readers will notice a grinning Bear mimicking devil horns with his paws, while an indignant Owl insists they leave the den and restart their hibernation preparation.

The amiable Bear goes along with Owl’s plans again—and again, and again—but each time they open the den door, they’re greeted with an even wilder party. There’s a rager with a DJ and lasers; a balloon-filled soiree Owl worries is against fire code; and finally, a surprise party that combines everything into one big chaotic, joyous sendoff.

Readers will giggle as author Brian Gehrlein’s expertly crafted narrative tension—and Owl’s frustration—gradually builds in This Is Not a Sleepy Bear Book. Throughout, Jennifer Harney alternates lovely woodland scenes drawn with graceful lines, fine details and wintry tones, with vibrant, energetic party tableaux in bright colors and bold type that perfectly complement Gehrlein’s heartfelt, hilarious exploration of the upsides of trying out a new attitude.

Ultimately, Owl can’t resist the allure of the final party, even admitting “that jazz flute is delicious.” His decision to embrace the unexpected and adopt a bit of Bear’s go-with-the-flow attitude, makes for a sweet, friendship-affirming finale in this humorously told, wonderfully illustrated tale that reminds readers of all ages it’s okay to balance doing what needs to be done with having lots of fun.